About
Tim Cook is an American business executive who has served as the CEO of Apple Inc. since 2011. Before becoming CEO, Cook served as Apple's COO under Steve Jobs. He joined Apple in 1998 as a senior vice president for worldwide operations. Cook has been instrumental in Apple's continued success, leading the company through numerous product launches and market expansions.
Career Timeline
Joins Apple as SVP Operations
Cook leaves Compaq to join Apple, recruited by Steve Jobs to overhaul the company's manufacturing and supply chain. His operational expertise helps Apple achieve profitability after years of losses.
iPhone Launch Success
As COO, Cook plays crucial role in iPhone production and supply chain management. The iPhone's success transforms Apple and establishes Cook as Jobs's most trusted lieutenant.
Becomes Apple CEO
Cook succeeds Steve Jobs as CEO, inheriting massive expectations and skepticism about following a visionary founder. He receives compensation package potentially worth over $400 million, signaling board confidence.
Publicly Comes Out
Cook becomes first openly gay CEO of a Fortune 500 company, writing powerful essay about his sexuality. This courageous move enhances his influence beyond business, making him an important LGBTQ+ advocate.
Apple Reaches $1 Trillion Valuation
Under Cook's leadership, Apple becomes first U.S. company to reach $1 trillion market cap. His focus on services revenue and operational excellence proves doubters wrong about succeeding Jobs.
Vision Pro Launch
Cook oversees launch of Apple Vision Pro, the company's first major new product category since Apple Watch. Though sales are modest, it demonstrates Apple's continued innovation ambitions under his tenure.
Apple's Steady Leader
Cook maintains Apple's position as world's most valuable company, with market cap exceeding $3 trillion. While not as visionary as Jobs, his operational mastery and strategic focus on services have driven unprecedented financial success.
Related Celebrities
Last updated: February 24, 2026